New study launched on domestic violence in South Yorkshire

Tracey Cheetham, deputy police and crime commissioner for South Yorkshire.

Women in South Yorkshire are being urged to take part in a new study on domestic violence.

Tracey Cheetham, South Yorkshire deputy police and crime commissioner, has launched the Women Safe in South Yorkshire survey, which is asking women how safe they feel in the region.

The results will form part of the evidence upon which future funding will be directed and specific work on women’s safety will be based.

Mrs Cheetham has previously met with the Suzy Lamplugh Trust, Women’s Aid and Apna Haq, to discuss the safety of women in South Yorkshire and she is keen to engage more women in shaping the future direction of the commissioner’s work.

She said: “It is a basic human right to feel safe when travelling to or from work, while shopping, on a night out, or in the park with the children – that is what the commissioner, Shaun Wright, and I want for women in South Yorkshire.

“It is important for women to be aware of safety issues, but fear should not stop them from enjoying normal day-to-day activities.

“I hope as many women as possible will join in and help us to gather information about their experiences and if they do feel at risk, what they think will help to make them feel safer.”

Recent research from the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights has reported figures that show almost half of women in Britain have experienced assault or sexual assault at some time in their life.

Morten Kjaerum, FRA Director, said: “The enormity of the problem is proof that violence against women does not just impact a few women only – it impacts on society every day.

“Policy makers, civil society and frontline workers need to review measures to tackle all forms of violence against women.”

n The survey is available for women to complete at https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/JLRSVNQ